Is It Normal to Feel Pain When Biting After Getting a Dental Bridge?

Is it painful to bite down on something with a dental bridge?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about something.
I just had a dental bridge placed yesterday, and the dentist told me to wait for a week to see how it goes before bonding it permanently.
However, I am experiencing pain when biting down on things.
Is this normal? I don't feel pain when I'm not biting.

Lin Xiansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/18

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear online friend,
If you are experiencing pain while biting down after recently getting a dental bridge, it's important to know that your dentist typically temporarily cements the bridge for you to try it out.
If you notice any painful areas, it is advisable to inform your treating dentist.
You can return for a follow-up appointment so the dentist can examine and adjust the bridge.
Once the trial fitting is confirmed to be problem-free, the prosthesis will be permanently cemented.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/07/18

More Info

It is not uncommon to experience some discomfort or pain when biting down after getting a dental bridge, especially during the initial adjustment period. When a dental bridge is placed, it is often temporarily cemented to allow the patient to test its fit and comfort before it is permanently bonded. This trial period is crucial for identifying any issues that may need to be addressed before the final cementation.

Pain when biting can arise from several factors. Firstly, the dental bridge may not be properly aligned with your bite, which can lead to pressure on certain teeth or areas of the gums. This misalignment can cause discomfort when chewing or biting down. It is essential to communicate any pain or discomfort to your dentist, as they may need to make adjustments to ensure that the bridge fits correctly and does not interfere with your bite.

Another reason for pain could be related to the underlying teeth or gums. If the teeth supporting the bridge (the abutment teeth) are sensitive or if there is inflammation in the gums, this can lead to discomfort when pressure is applied. Additionally, if there are any issues with the dental pulp or nerve of the abutment teeth, this could also manifest as pain when biting.

In some cases, the materials used in the dental bridge may cause sensitivity, especially if you have recently undergone procedures like root canal therapy or if you have a history of dental sensitivity. The adjustment period can also involve some discomfort as your mouth gets used to the new structure.

If the pain persists beyond the initial adjustment period or worsens, it is crucial to return to your dentist for a follow-up appointment. They can assess the situation, check for any underlying issues, and make necessary adjustments to alleviate the discomfort. It is also important to ensure that there are no signs of infection or complications related to the dental bridge or the surrounding teeth.

In summary, while some discomfort is normal after getting a dental bridge, it should gradually improve. If you experience significant pain or if the discomfort does not subside, it is essential to consult your dentist for further evaluation and treatment. Your oral health and comfort are paramount, and addressing any issues early on can help prevent more significant problems down the line.

Similar Q&A

Pain When Biting with New Dental Bridge: Causes and Solutions

When I was a child, my primary lateral incisor did not fall out until I was in middle school, which caused a gap between my canine and incisor. As I grew older, the gap widened, but there still wasn't enough space for an implant, so I opted for a dental bridge. I have been t...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If there is pain when biting down after the dental bridge is placed, it may be due to high occlusion, periodontal issues with the supporting teeth, or poor marginal fit at the junctions of the bridge with each tooth, leading to sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli. It is recommend...

Understanding Tooth Sensitivity After Dental Bridge Placement

After getting a dental bridge, I experience discomfort when biting down. The dentist mentioned it might be due to occlusion. Since I have many teeth that need treatment, I'm hesitant to proceed with the next one. The bridge has already been placed, so the dentist had to grin...

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry
Hello: Under normal circumstances, biting with a dental bridge should not cause any discomfort. If your condition does not improve, it is advisable to visit a teaching hospital for a proper examination by a physician to determine the issue. Dr. Wu Jin-jun, Director of Dentistry, ...

Understanding Pain After Dental Bridge: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor: I had a dental bridge placed on my upper front teeth, consisting of six crowns. It has been over a year since the procedure, but recently, in the past few months, I have been experiencing pain in my upper teeth when biting down. The teeth adjacent to the false teeth...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
It is possible that the gums around the edges of the braces are inflamed. It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible for a thorough examination and treatment. Dr. Tseng Guang-Hui, Department of Dentistry, Nantou Hospital.

Should You Remove a Dental Bridge for Further Examination?

Recently, I have been experiencing pain when biting down on three teeth that are part of a dental bridge, and I also feel sensitivity when drinking cold water. I went to the clinic for an examination, and after an X-ray, the dentist said there were no cavities and the bridge was ...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If there are no apical lesions or apical inflammation visible on the X-ray, percussion should not cause pain. However, it is not possible to determine whether there is caries within the abutment teeth of the dental bridge from the X-ray. Additionally, the marginal integrity of th...